Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares

Name: Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 cups rolled oats; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I’m thrilled to share my Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares recipe with you! These deliciously moist squares combine ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and wholesome oats, creating a perfect breakfast treat that’s not only easy to make but also family-approved. I love how they can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week, making busy mornings a little sweeter. Plus, the delightful aroma fills the kitchen as they bake, making it nearly impossible to resist having just one more square!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:49:36.078Z

When I first created these Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares, I wanted to craft something simple yet genuinely satisfying to kickstart our mornings. After a few trial runs, I discovered the magic of adding just the right amount of cinnamon to enhance the banana flavor without overpowering it. It’s amazing how just a dash of spice can elevate your breakfast game!

One tip I learned is to use very ripe bananas. They not only provide natural sweetness but also ensure the squares stay wonderfully moist. Trust me, as they cool down, the kitchen will fill with an irresistible scent that will have everyone asking for a taste!

        Why You'll Love These Breakfast Squares
        Made with ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture
A perfect blend of warm cinnamon and hearty oats
Great for meal prep or on-the-go breakfasts

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

Ripe bananas are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and moisture, which are essential for achieving the perfect texture. When selecting bananas, look for those with plenty of brown spots, as these are the sweetest. The bananas should be mashed well so that they blend smoothly into the batter, contributing to a dense yet soft square that holds together beautifully.

Peanut or almond butter not only adds additional flavor but also helps bind the ingredients together while providing healthy fats and protein. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter makes a great substitute. Just ensure it’s well-mixed to avoid an overly oily batter. The choice of sweetener, honey or maple syrup, also impacts the overall taste; maple syrup adds a subtle earthiness while honey gives a touch of floral sweetness.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When baking the squares, keep an eye on the oven. Start checking around the 20-minute mark; you're looking for a golden-brown top and an aroma that fills your kitchen. The squares should spring back when lightly pressed in the center, indicating they are set. If the edges feel firm but the center seems too soft, you may need to bake a few more minutes to avoid gummy squares.

Once baked, allowing the squares to cool completely in the pan is crucial for texture. If you’re impatient and cut them while warm, they may crumble and fall apart. For optimal cutting, wait until they reach room temperature, and use a sharp knife to get clean edges. If you want to make them ahead of time, they store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or can be frozen for up to a month.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Add dry ingredients

Stir in the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. If you’re using nuts, fold them in at this stage.

Pour and bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and cut

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.

Enjoy your delightful breakfast squares!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try mixing in a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruit into the batter.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Try them warm out of the oven, drizzled with a bit of nut butter for a protein boost, or topped with fresh sliced bananas for extra fruitiness. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of yogurt, making for a deliciously satisfying breakfast or snack.

For a fun twist, consider serving the squares with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or dried fruit mixed in. This not only enhances their flavor but also adds a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft squares. A sprinkle of chia seeds or flaxseed can boost the nutritional profile and give it an interesting crunch.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to get creative with these breakfast squares! You can swap the cinnamon for pumpkin spice or chai seasoning to give a seasonal twist. If you're a fan of double chocolate, mix in cocoa powder and some chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Alternatively, add other fruits like grated apples or shredded zucchini to enhance moisture without compromising the structure.

For a gluten-free option, ensure you're using certified gluten-free oats. You might also reduce the amount of sweetener if your bananas are particularly ripe, adjusting to your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless with these Banana Cinnamon Breakfast Squares, allowing you to tailor them to your dietary needs and flavor cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I freeze the breakfast squares?

Yes! These squares freeze well. Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.